When you think of the marching band, maybe you think of lots of students wearing funny jackets and feathers on their heads, but most also associate the band with school spirit. The marching band can make or break a game-day atmosphere. From blasting the Fight Song when we make touchdowns to performing a whole pregame show, the band gets the crowd cheering.

Most college bands perform a pregame show, which is the best way to start the game. Florida State plays classic FSU songs and even some more obscure traditional songs. We also spell "Noles" and feature the Golden Girls and Cheerleaders. This type of show is typical of most colleges, and it's a wonderful tradition to spark some school spirit.

After pregame, we all head to the stands to play at a moment's notice. The band cheers on the football team no matter what. Period. Whether or not we love the players or coaches, we support them. We stand ready to play the Fight Song after a touchdown and other songs in the stands to keep the crowd going.

Socially, the marching band is also great for all involved. It gives freshmen a community to get involved in and it allows upperclassmen to grow with the same people. Everyone makes life-long friends that they stay with after their college years are over. We all bond over the tough preseason training, long nights after games, and hours on the field perfecting our craft. Marching bands also love each other, even if it is a rival school. Regardless of football, bands love to talk to band members from other schools. We are always able to relate to each other because we all love the same thing: music.

A lesser-known fact about the Marching Chiefs at FSU is that we play the Hymn to Garnet and Gold after every single home game, win or lose. It's a song that has a special place in every Chief's heart.